Get to Know New Panthers Safety Mike Adams

After losing out on top target Barry Church, the Carolina Panthers weren’t willing to get into a bidding war for other available safeties. But they still needed to check that box, which led them to Mike Adams, who on Friday signed a two-year deal.

Yes, He’s Old

Let’s get this out of the way first.

34-year-old punter Andy Lee was the oldest guy on the roster. Until Friday. Lee’s now young compared to Julius Peppers (37) and Adams, who turns 36 later this month.

But He’s Still Getting it Done

Adams went to the Pro Bowl twice in the past three seasons with the Colts. Granted, he got in after other players pulled out, but he was plenty productive picking off 12 passes and forcing seven fumbles while starting all but four games since 2014.

Veteran Voice

Say what you want about the Roman Harper era, but he was a huge positive for younger guys in the secondary. Adams, who’s also made stops in San Francisco, Cleveland and Denver during his 13-year career, should have a similar effect.

The Plan

The Panthers went into the offseason hoping to slide Kurt Coleman back to free safety. This move will allow that while returning Tre Boston to a backup role.

Despite his inconsistencies, the Panthers haven’t given up on Boston yet, but they weren’t comfortable going into the spring with the lineup that ended the season. Signing Adams also doesn’t preclude them from drafting a safety in next month’s draft.